Woodstock Fair brings grandiose close to summer

Thursday

Aug 28, 2008 at 12:01 AMAug 28, 2008 at 10:18 AM

But the heart of the fair, which is in its 148th year, remains in its local people. Sponsored by the Windham Agricultural Society, it is a labor of love that evolves as it remains steadfast to its agricultural heritage.

Sharma Howard

The Woodstock Fair draws people from as far away as the Jersey shore and Maine, attracted to the diverse offerings and big act entertainment. But the heart of the fair, which is in its 148th year, remains in its local people. Sponsored by the Windham Agricultural Society, it is a labor of love that evolves as it remains steadfast to its agricultural heritage.

This year’s theme is “Country Traditions,” and the fair has been honored by Gov. M. Jodi Rell as the only state fair to be named as participating with the “No Child Left Inside” initiative.

The fair is continuing its Birthing Barn, which was launched last year. Thirty-one pregnant cows — ladies in waiting — are in a barn with veterinarians on stand-by, so people can witness the miracle of birth.

“It was a wonderful success,” said Susan Hibbard, president of the Woodstock Agricultural Society.

She said people were standing nine deep to witness the birthing of calves — five were born last year.

“People are so interested in the whole process,” she said. “There’s a gentleness and kindness there; it’s a joyful experience.”

The entertainment is booked in February and March, Hibbard said, and people often ask her what is being planned.

“It is one of the big draws of the fair,” she said.

This year, headliner JoDee Messina is a bit of a coup for the fair, which had been trying to get the country star for some time, but had never been in her route of travel before. Another popular band that should appeal to the younger crowd is Smashmouth, who achieved mainstream fame with “All Star,” “I’m a Believer” and “Walkin’ On The Sun.”

Another fair staple is the food. Concession manager Donna Copeland said you can find anything you want to eat at the fair, ticking off the variety: Greek food, Thai food, falafels, and French beignet, which she compared to doughnuts and fried dough.

French fries from two concession stands are extremely popular, Copeland said.

The fair has agricultural barns where children can hold baby chickens, learn about butter making, and taste cheese samples in what Hibbard describes as a family friendly environment. Families will also be fascinated with the anitque display of cars, tractors and engines. There are also many pulls and contests, some tied into agriculture — such as the giant pumpkin contest (last year’s winner had a 891-pound pumpkin) — to others that are just plain fun — such as go-cart racing.

The Kid Zone has been expanded, and here, volunteers keep the children engaged in games. Arts and crafts, coloring, a maze and pretend farming are some of the activities.